I was torn as to what to add as an image for “design”. I have a portfolio full of web design, graphic design, illustration, even industrial drawings and 3d animations.

I chose the puzzle piece for a very important reason…I love someone with Autism. The puzzle piece has become a badge those of us living with Autism wear in support of those we love. I designed this particular graphic for 2008’s Autism Awareness month in April.

In 2007 I founded Animals for Autism, with the goal to help individuals living with a special need receive access to animal assisted therapies. Nationally we help almost 100 families each week, and we are hoping to apply for 501c3 status later this year. In my local community my daughter and I volunteer with two incredible organizations that provide animal assisted therapies, chiefly Hippotherapy and therapeutic horseback riding. I have been studying animal assisted therapies for nearly 8 years now and my family hopes that one day we will be able to fulfill our original goal of training canines to work with children with autism.

Living with a disability is a day to day sort of life and one filled with new challenges and adventures all the time….by supporting each other we can be the voice that no one can silence. We will finally overcome our obstacles to the best of our abilities and be able to live our lives to the fullest with the dignity, respect and opportunities we all equally deserve.